Simplifying Life Off the Grid
Imprisoned in the monotony of daily routines, endless traffic, and the 9-5 grind, many are drawn to the allure of full-time travel. A new view every morning—majestic mountains, sunlit deserts, or tranquil beaches – is a lifestyle rooted in freedom, self-reliance, and connection with nature. The ability to design your days, travel at your own pace, and experience the world’s hidden gems creates a sense of personal ownership over your life that’s hard to match.
Promising the thrill of exploration, the freedom to chase horizons, and the chance to immerse yourself in ever-changing landscapes, life on the road or the water means spending more time unplugged and off the grid. While the off-grid lifestyle invites the allure of independence and self-sufficiency, it presents new challenges you wouldn’t encounter in a standard residential home.
Life on the grid offers the simplicity of access to an essentially endless electricity and water supply. Without thinking twice, you can plug in an appliance or electronic appliance and expect it to work flawlessly. While spending time off-grid, you must be creative about accessing electricity and consistently monitor your power consumption to ensure you can power your essential appliances.
While the freedom to disconnect and spend time in nature is a welcome release for many who pursue an off-grid lifestyle, they become keenly aware of their power constraints when heading to the kitchen and preparing meals. Without unfettered access to electricity, it can be challenging to pick and choose which appliances and cooking methods to use while making food off the grid.
Whether you’ve been living off the grid for years or are just beginning to pursue the lifestyle, we have helpful tips, essential gear, and go-to recipes from seasoned travelers to make cooking off the grid a breeze.
Off-Grid Cooking Essentials
Cooking off the grid is more than just a necessity; it’s an opportunity to embrace the unique challenges of being unplugged without sacrificing modern conveniences. From the timeless charm of cooking over an open fire to traditional camping kitchen equipment and modern energy-efficient appliances, with the right tools, you can cook all of your favorite foods while off-grid.
Over the Fire
From the early days of civilization, humans have been cooking their meals under the stars and over the fire. While modern appliances and power sources have made this practice nearly obsolete in day-to-day life, many still enjoy the ease and nostalgia of cooking off-grid while camping. Bring any would or kindling and a fire starter, and you have a long-lasting heat source to cook food over.
Whether you bring along cast iron grates, pans, and Dutch ovens to cook full meals over the fire or gather a few sticks for roasting hot dogs and marshmallows, cooking on a fire pit can be a fun and simple way to cook off-grid that requires minimal equipment and preparation. Although this method confines adventurers to stay in areas where fires are permitted and safe to start and presents challenges during rain or other adverse weather conditions, it’s a great option and a practical backup plan when all else fails.
Traditional Camping Equipment
In recent decades, portable cooking appliances opened the possibilities of what could be cooked outdoors and off the grid. With the ability to power various heat sources with propane or butane, gases are easily contained in canisters, making them portable and safe. Many appliances have been adapted to propane power and have become popular as more people started camping.
Propane camp stoves mimic gas stoves found in residential homes, vastly simplifying the cooking process that was once solely done over the fire. This safer alternative is easier to use, can be used in areas with fire restrictions, and can be used within well-ventilated shelters when the weather takes a turn for the worse. Other propane-powered appliances, including portable coffee makers and grills, created simplified ways to enjoy hot meals and beverages away from the power grid.
Residential Kitchen Appliances
As technology has continued to advance, so has off-grid cooking equipment. Beyond reliance on propane-powered appliances, various power options have allowed adventurers to bring all their favorite residential kitchen appliances. Any kitchen appliance can be taken off the grid with the correct power system, from coffee makers and slow cookers to ovens, blenders, and refrigerators.
Whether simply adding solar panels to your camping setup to harness the renewable energy of the sun or building out a highly-capable electrical system for your adventure rig, you can have access to all the power you need without plugging into the grid. With access to fresh ingredients, even during extended stays of the grid, and essentially limitless power with the right electrical system, gourmet meals are easily achievable, even in compact, mobile kitchens.
Best Appliances and Tools for Off-Grid Cooking
Depending on the size of your rig, your lifestyle, and where and how you intend to travel, you may want to choose one or all of these cooking methods. From installing a powerful electrical system that allows you to power any electric appliance you need to enjoy the nostalgia of cooking over the fire, let’s dive into our favorite appliances and tools for cooking off the grid.
Lodge Cast Iron Cook-It-All
For those interested in doing more cooking over the campfire and outdoors, this massive cast iron pan functions in 5 different cooking configurations. With a large wok base, a grill surface and a lid, this cast iron pan can cook countless meals over the fire.
Coleman Cascade 328 3-Burner Camping Stove
A durable and easy-to-carry propane camping stove offers 3 burners to quickly and easily craft your favorite meals. With matchless lighting, two wind guards, and extended burn time, this stove is great for overlanders without a dedicated kitchen space planning to do most of their cooking outdoors.
Dometic Refrigerator
Dometic NRX 130C Compressor Refrigerator: A 3-1 cooling system, this innovative compressor/refrigerator can act as a fridge, freezer, or both, depending on your unique needs. With multiple power modes, it can maximize energy efficiency to ensure your food stays fresh during extended stays off the grid.
Instant Pot Duo
Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker: Instant pots allow you to cook meals quickly and efficiently with minimal dishes or need for other appliances. 7-1 functionality and 13 customizable innovative programs will enable you to cook your favorite foods with just the click of a button.
Breville Smart Oven and Air Fryer
Breville the Smart Oven® Air Fryer Pro: This countertop air fryer and oven combo is the versatile system offers 13 cooking functions to make cooking your favorite meals simple. Its compact design and multifunctionality replace many full-size kitchen appliances.
Programmable Coffee Maker
A coffee maker is an essential piece to every morning routine. While there are countless ways to brew your morning pot of joe, nothing beats the simplicity of a standard coffee maker and the ability to brew a whole pot of coffee with the flip of a switch.
Off-Grid Power Essentials for Off-Grid Cooking
When it comes to off-grid cooking, choosing the right fuel source is essential for convenience, efficiency, and sustainability. In addition to considering the type of meals you intend to cook and the lifestyle you wish to live off-grid, it’s essential to determine the fuel sources your cooking methods will require and how you will bring along enough to sustain your trip.
Types of Fuel Sources: Campfire
The traditional campfire is a timeless and versatile fuel source for off-grid cooking. It requires no special equipment besides firewood, kindling, matches, or a lighter and it adds a unique flavor while grilling or roasting meats and vegetables. It creates a fun and unique experience involving the whole family roasting marshmallows or hot dogs over the open flame. The wood and kindling that fuels the fire are typically easy to bring along and gather extra if necessary. Additionally, campfires double as a heat source and gathering place.
When choosing a campfire as a primary or secondary fuel source for cooking, there are a few things to consider. Building and maintaining a fire requires some skill and attention, and it may not be feasible in wet weather or in areas with fire restrictions. Safety should always be your priority; proper procedures should be followed to keep your campfire contained.
Types of Fuel Sources: Propane
Propane is a portable, and widely available fuel source perfect for off-grid cooking. Various camping stoves, ovens, and grills are powered by propane and are easy to use with precise temperature control. They’re reliable in harsh weather conditions and can safely be used indoors with proper ventilation, making them a popular choice for campers and RVers. Removing the hassle and risk of starting and maintaining a fire, propane-powered cooking equipment is a quick and easy way to cook meals off the grid.
While propane tanks are compact and reusable, they must be refilled and stored safely. This can create constraints as those wanting to spend extended time on the grid must carry excess propane or make frequent stops to refill canisters. Additionally, propane is not a clean fuel source, meaning excess use will negatively impact the environment and is not sustainable in the long run.
Types of Fuel Sources: Electricity
Electricity is increasingly becoming a viable option for off-grid cooking, thanks to power generation and storage advancements. Gasoline or diesel generators can provide reliable electricity for cooking appliances when you’re off the grid. Generators can run high-energy appliances, providing the comfort of home in remote locations. While they are helpful, generators require fuel, are incredibly noisy, and emit carbon dioxide, which is hazardous to humans and the environment.
Recent innovations have led to electricity generation methods that can harness renewable energy. Renewable energy sources, particularly solar power, are becoming a cornerstone of sustainable off-grid living. Paired with lithium batteries, they provide a clean and quiet energy solution.
Benefits of Renewable Energy
Renewable energy sources tap into naturally replenished resources, such as sunlight and wind, making them virtually inexhaustible. Unlike finite fossil fuels, you never have to worry about running out of power if your renewable energy system is set up and maintained correctly. Solar panels can charge your batteries anytime that the sun is shining, continuously replenishing your power supply. This reliability ensures you have consistent energy for cooking, even on extended trips, without the hassle of sourcing or transporting fuel.
One of the most significant advantages of renewable energy is its minimal impact on the environment and our health compared to traditional fuel sources. Renewable energy systems operate quietly and produce no harmful emissions, creating a more pleasant and healthier environment. By eliminating noise pollution and toxic emissions, renewable energy enhances your overall off-grid experience, making it safer and more enjoyable for you and the environment.
Why Battle Born is the Best Option for Off-Grid Cooking
Adding a high-quality energy storage system, like Battle Born Batteries, is the best way to make the most out of renewable energy generation. Whether you’re on the water, exploring untouched wilderness, or anywhere in between, the sun won’t always be shining. You’ll want reliable power when the sun is at sunset, on cloudy days, or even in shady parking spots. Having power stored up for use when the sun isn’t shining will ensure your adventure continues, even in less-than-ideal conditions.
Battle Born Batteries pair seamlessly with renewable energy systems and maximize their potential. Their advanced lithium technology efficiently stores energy from renewable sources, ensuring you can run cooking appliances at any time of day without worrying about running out of power. These batteries are designed to handle deep cycles, offering thousands of charge and discharge cycles without losing performance. Their lightweight design makes them ideal for the road and water, where weight is a critical factor.
With a high energy density and stable output, these batteries can run everything from coffee makers and microwaves to electric griddles and refrigerators, all with the flip of a switch. They’re also compatible with inverters, allowing you to use standard kitchen appliances effortlessly. Battle Born Batteries will enable you to enjoy the same level of convenience as a fully equipped home kitchen, all while staying off the grid.
Off-Grid Cookbook
For avid adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts, the reliability and power of Battle Born Batteries allows them to cook their favorite meals, wherever the road or waves take them, with ease. We’re compiling mouthwatering recipes from your favorite off-grid kitchens to inspire a gourmet menu for your next off-grid adventure.
Air Fried Brussel Sprouts
For Kenny and Sabrina from Moving Forward Adventures, long days on the road typically leave little time to prepare extensive meals in the evening. This quick and easy side dish of air-fried Brussel sprouts is a flavor-packed and nutritious side with any dinner.
Appliances
- Air fryer
- Refrigerator
Ingredients
- 1 lb. fresh Brussel sprouts
- A drizzle of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and slice Brussel sprouts.
- Add sliced Brussel sprouts to a bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and add salt and pepper to taste. Shake until Brussel sprouts are fully coated.
- Marinate in the fridge overnight if desired.
- Air fry at 400 F for 5-8 minutes. Shake. Return for another 5-8 minutes until the outside is golden brown and tender on the inside.
Chicken Nachos
Scarlet and Seth live full-time on the road in their vans and are always searching for quick and healthy dinner options. These chicken nachos can be vegan with plant-based alternatives and come together in 15-20 minutes!
Appliances
- Propane or Induction Cooktop
- Breville Smart Oven
Ingredients
- 1 lb. of Chicken or 1 Pouch of Daring Foods Original Plant Chicken Pieces (for a vegan option)
- 1 bag of tortilla chips (use blue corn for a pop of color)
- 1 packet of taco seasoning
- 1 can of black beans
- 1 can of corn
- ½ onion
- A few handfuls of shredded cheese or plant-based cheese shreds
- ½ a head of iceberg lettuce
- 2 bell peppers (diced)
For the homemade guacamole:
- 2 avocados
- Squeeze of lime juice
- 1 clove garlic
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Sauté chicken of choice in a saucepan with taco seasoning and onions until fully cooked.
- Then assemble tortilla chips, chicken, black beans, ½ can of corn, and shredded cheese on an oven-safe pan.
- Bake at 375F for 6 minutes.
- Top with homemade guacamole, ½ head of lettuce, diced bell peppers, ½ can of sweet con, green onions, cilantro, and red salsa.
- ENJOY!
Sourdough Bread
Although they love traveling in their truck camper, Dave and Irene from Carey on Vagabond missed all the baking they could do in their residential kitchen. With a power upgrade and new appliances, Irene loves making freshly baked sourdough bread while camping off-grid!
Appliances/Bakeware
- Contoure Camper Convection Oven
- Dutch Oven
Ingredients
- 500 grams of bread flour (I use King Arthur)
- 150 grams fully active sourdough starter
- 9 grams salt (I use kosher)
- 285 grams of lukewarm water
- 1 tbs. all-purpose flour for dusting
Instructions
- Mix all the ingredients together in a large bowl until a ball forms. Be sure to incorporate all the flour. After forming a shaggy ball, cover the bowl and let rest for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, use the pull-and-fold method around the dough ball. You will start by grabbing from under the side of the ball, gently stretching a portion of the dough, and then folding it back onto itself. Pull and fold each section of dough until you have gone around the entire ball of dough two times. This process helps align the gluten strands in the flour, resulting in a light and airy texture when baked. As you move around the dough, keep tension so that it retains its shape as you go along.
- Cover and let it sit overnight or at least 5-6 hrs. You will know it’s ready when it has doubled in size.
- Once ready to bake, gently scrape it from the bowl onto some parchment paper lightly floured with all-purpose flour. Form it into a ball to form your loaf shape. Be sure to not push down or knead it, just gently form it into a ball. Let it rest there while you preheat your oven.
- Set oven to 475 F with your Dutch oven inside. After 30 minutes, pull out the Dutch oven and lower the heat to 425 F.
- Cut a slit down your loaf. This helps create a more even rise and allows steam to escape during baking. Carefully place your bread on the parchment paper inside your Dutch oven.
- Bake covered for 20 minutes; remove the lid and bake for 25 minutes. Remove from the oven and let the loaf cool on a rack. I usually let it rest for at least a half hour before cutting it, but sometimes it’s too hard to resist the smell, and I give in after 15 minutes.
- Once it has cooled, dig in!
Blended Strawberry Margaritas
Peter and Tom set sail for life at sea and never looked back! With an upgrade to lithium batteries on their sailboat Bohemia, they’ve enjoyed all their favorite things from life on the mainland, including blended margaritas with their brand-new blender!
Appliances
- Blender
Ingredients
- 4 cups of frozen strawberries
- 1 cup tequila
- ¾ pineapple juice
- ½ banana (for thickening)
- 1/3 cup lime juice
Instructions
- Add ingredients to a blender. Blend until combined.
- Enjoy!
Stuffed Mushrooms
While Anne and Brian are On the Road of Adventure, they love experiencing the places they travel through, immersing themselves in the culture, and enjoying local cuisine. When they’re enjoying dinner in their RV, Anne loves to incorporate what she has learned into creating delicious meals on the go. Whether you’re looking for a simple meal for your family or cooking for last-minute guests, these stuffed mushrooms are easy to cook in an RV kitchen and are sure to be a hit!
Appliances
- Propane or Induction Cooktop
- Combination Convection Oven/Microwave
Ingredients
- 1-2 Tablespoons of Olive Oil
- 1-pound Italian sausage (chicken, turkey, or pork)
- 4 portobello mushrooms, stemmed and gills removed (or substitute for bell peppers)
- ½ onion, chopped
- ½ red bell pepper
- 2-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 Tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- ¼ cup shredded parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup Panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375F.
- Brown the Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Remove only one tablespoon of oil before adding the chopped onion and red pepper.
- Add the minced garlic when the vegetables are soft and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the tomato paste and cook for a minute.
- Stir in the spinach and the parmesan cheese.
- Split the mixture between the five remaining mushrooms.
- Top with panko breadcrumbs.
- Cook in the oven at 375-400 degrees for about 25 minutes.
- Enjoy!
Cozy Pumpkin Coconut Curry
While Marc and Trish travel in their Airstream, Trish loves sharing her passion for food and cooking, no matter where their adventures take them. For chilly evenings off the grid, this cozy curry makes a warm and hearty meal in no time!
Appliances
- Propane or Induction Cooktop
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp red curry paste
- 2 tbsp avocado oil
- 1 red onion, cut into large cubes
- 2 tbsp grated ginger
- 2 tbsp chopped garlic
- 1 can pumpkin purée
- 2 cans of coconut milk
- 5 cups chicken broth (or fill the pumpkin can twice)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (or palm sugar)
- 2 medium gold potatoes, cubed (skin on)
- 1 medium sweet potato, cubed
- 1 cup long beans, cut into 1-inch strips (or French green beans)
Instructions
- Toast curry paste & oil over medium-low heat until fragrant.
- Add red onion, ginger, and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
- Add pumpkin purée, coconut milk, chicken broth and sugar. Stir to combine into a rich broth.
- Add veggies and simmer until potatoes are tender.
- Serve over steamed rice & garnish with fresh cilantro, Thai basil, and a lime wedge!
Transform Off-Grid Cooking with Battle Born Batteries
Off-grid living combines the freedom of life unplugged while enjoying your favorite kitchen appliances and the convenience of a residential home. Advances in solar energy and lithium batteries now make it possible to use residential appliances like air fryers, ovens, and refrigerators off-grid, enabling home cooks to craft gourmet meals in remote locations. With the right tools, sustainable power solutions, and ingenuity, cooking off the grid transforms a challenge into a rewarding dining experience.
Ready to upgrade your off-grid kitchen with the power of Battle Born Batteries? Use the Battle Born Batteries Calculator to determine how much power you need to cook and use your favorite kitchen appliances while off the grid. Whether you’re planning to cook over the fire and need a refrigerator for your fresh ingredients, stepping up your kitchen with an induction cooktop, or want enough power to run everything from an air fryer to a microwave, we have a system for you! Battle Born Batteries’ can power your off-grid adventures and equip you with reliable, long-lasting energy solutions to cook gourmet meals while living off-grid.
We know that building or upgrading an off-grid electrical system can be overwhelming, so we’re here to help. Our Reno, Nevada-based sales and customer service team is at (855) 292-2831 to answer your questions!